Shipping Fresh Produce from Cartagena to Detroit via Ocean Freight

Moving fresh produce successfully Requires a continuous cold chain. Use thermal containers with the right amount of gel packs for Chilled food or dry ice for Frozen food, pre‑chill products before packing, and choose a time‑definite service. Clearly mark boxes as “Perishable” and specify the required temperature so carriers handle them as Reefer cargo.

Yes, Frozen food can often be shipped with dry ice by air, but dry ice is regulated as a dangerous good. Airlines Set limits on how much dry ice is allowed per package and per shipment, and labels must show the net weight of dry ice and UN1845 markings. Our compliance team recommends checking carrier and destination rules in advance and combining dry ice with insulated packaging to keep Frozen food at temperature while staying within dry‑ice limits.

Standard cargo policies may limit coverage for temperature-related loss on fresh food and Frozen goods. Insurance specialists generally recommend arranging a policy that specifically covers temperature deviation and spoilage, and declaring the full value of your Reefer cargo. Keep packing records and temperature logs; insurers often require proof that Proper packaging was used before honoring claims.

Most refrigerated food should stay between 0–4°C, while many frozen goods products must remain at −18°C or colder. Exact ranges depend on the product type and local regulations. Always Confirm requirements for each item and specify the target range on booking instructions and labels so your temperature-controlled shipment is set correctly.

You can sometimes mix fresh food and frozen goods in the same load, but only if your container or vehicle can maintain separate temperature zones. Fresh produce typically needs temperatures above freezing, while frozen food must stay well below zero. If only one temperature setpoint is available, most logistics providers recommend separating them into different Reefer cargo shipments to avoid freezing perishable goods or partially thawing frozen items.

Fresh and frozen food must be maintained at specific temperature controls throughout the journey to ensure product integrity. Proper packaging, including insulated containers and dry ice for frozen items, is essential to prevent spoilage.

Shipments must comply with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, including prior notice requirements and adherence to safety standards. Additionally, phytosanitary certificates may be required for fresh produce to ensure they meet U.S. import standards.

DNA provides fast, secure air freight solutions with expedited and economy air options, airport-to-door coordination, consolidation, customs pre-clearance, and full visibility with live alerts and 24/7 tracking.

DNA offers scalable capacity for seasonal spikes as part of our ground transportation solutions.

DNA offers warehousing and distribution with inventory management and reporting, B2B pick/pack and palletization, cross-docking, transloading, and partnered facilities in key logistics hubs.